Kens Meaning in English
word · lemma: ken
Definition
'Kens' is an archaic or dialect form of the verb 'ken', meaning to know, recognize, or understand something, mostly used in Scottish or Northern English. Rare in modern English except in dialect, literature, or poetry.
Usage & Nuances
Now considered archaic or dialectal, and mainly appears in Scottish, Northern English, or older literary styles. Can sound poetic or quaint. Use 'knows' in modern English instead. Common in phrases like 'beyond one's ken' (outside one's knowledge).
Example Sentences
He kens the answer to this old riddle.
basic
Nobody kens what happened that night.
basic
She kens him from the village.
basic
Aye, he kens what the old ways mean.
natural
She just kens when something is wrong, like a sixth sense.
natural
Folk here say he kens every path in the hills.
natural